YMCA of Central New York
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Statement
The YMCA of Central New York comprises people of all ages and from every walk of life working side by side to strengthen our communities. Together we work to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, age, cultural background, ethnicity, faith, gender, gender identity, ideology, income, national origin, race, sexual orientation, body type/shape, physical and mental well-being, and any other dimensions of diversity has the opportunity to reach their full potential with dignity. This is what we mean when we say we are “FOR ALL.” Our core values are caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility – they guide everything we do.
The YMCA of Central New York stands with others in denouncing prejudice, racism, sexism, ableism, ageism, bigotry, intolerance, and all other forms of discrimination, yet taking a “stand” is not enough. We are traveling on a journey to identify how to remove systemic barriers and build equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging into all our operations, as well as model those principles as we advance our mission. We believe that embracing equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as an organization is a path to create space for positive outcomes to flourish intentionally.
Commitments written on paper are not commitments unless they are actively represented through organizational action. Facing reality and the historical impact of marginalization and discrimination of others is no simple task. It requires being comfortable with discomfort. The key is to remain consistent and diligent. There will be times when our organization is challenged in these efforts – these are the times when it is most important to uphold the principles of equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as they are integral to the mission of the YMCA.
How tired do you think marginalized communities are of broken commitments and efforts? We persevere and don’t shy away from courageous conversations; being uncomfortable is how progress is made.